Long Beach Man Arrested for Allegedly Supporting ISIS Financially: Justice Department Report
A man from Long Beach was taken into custody for allegedly providing financial assistance to individuals claiming to be affiliated with ISIS, as per the Justice Department. Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, 28, reportedly communicated with two individuals who identified themselves as ISIS members and expressed his willingness to support the terrorist group's cause. Villanueva allegedly offered to send money to cover their equipment and weapons in a message from February. Subsequently, he sent a total of $1,615 in twelve payments over a five-month period to two intermediaries who accessed the funds overseas, based on Western Union records.
During his interactions with one of the purported ISIS fighters, Villanueva mentioned having a bomb and knives, leading the FBI to discover what appeared to be a bomb in his bedroom. Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli emphasized the seriousness of supporting a terrorist group, stating that it poses a significant threat to national security. He affirmed that individuals who provide assistance or comfort to enemies will be vigorously pursued and prosecuted. Villanueva, a lawful permanent resident from the Philippines, was scheduled to appear in Los Angeles federal court on Friday for his initial hearing. If found guilty, he could face up to 20 years in federal prison.